By assisting states in building and strengthening democratic institutions, ODIHR helps governments to become more accountable and representative to their citizens. To this end, the Office works with government institutions, political parties and parliaments, and civil society. ODIHR also supports the efforts of countries across the OSCE region in increasing the participation of women and youth in politics, strengthening parliaments, developing multiparty political landscapes, and improving the integration of migrants.
ODIHR's work on democratic governance is anchored in the standards to which OSCE participating States have agreed, including political pluralism, institutional accountability, an active civil society, human rights, the rule of law, and democratic elections.
